Softimage, Criterion Collaborate On RenderWare Plug-Ins

Softimage, a subsidiary of Avid Technology, Inc. has announced a strategic alliance agreement with EA-owned Criterion Software, described as 'the industry-leading provider of middleware for the gaming industry.' Under this agreement, game developers using Criterion's RenderWare solutions now have access to a suite of plug-ins and import/export tools designed to facilitate the integration of 3D content created in Softimage|XSI software. Gareth Morgan, senior product manager for Softimage, commented: "With tight interoperability between Softimage|XSI and RenderWare, artists and developers using RenderWare middleware solutions can now benefit from the distinct design features found only in Softimage|XSI, such as high-performance subdivision surface modeling, truly programmable real-time shaders, and advanced character rigging and animation tools."